“Sadly the VW Arteon was discontinued in 2023. I would caution them about possible interior defects. Such as in the air ventilation system whistling and door speakers rattling because of poor plastic door panels. Otherwise the overall running gear and road handling is excellent.”
2023 Volkswagen Arteon: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
For 2023, the Volkswagen Arteon’s biggest change is more standard equipment, with the SE R-Line receiving the most substantial upgrade. The car’s design and turbocharged powertrain otherwise carry over from 2022.
About the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon
First generation in the U.S. (2019-2023), late-cycle year after the 2021 refresh and the major 2022 powertrain upgrade.
Volkswagen positions the Arteon as a sleek hatchback-style sedan that blends upscale design with real everyday usefulness. The big rear hatch and roomy cabin give it more cargo flexibility than a traditional sedan, while the strong turbo engine and available AWD give it more punch than most mainstream midsize cars. VW’s messaging centers on its head-turning shape, generous passenger and cargo room, and a more premium feel than buyers usually expect from the brand.
The SE R-Line is the stylish entry model, pairing front-wheel drive with adaptive suspension, heated front seats, navigation, wireless smartphone integration, and a hands-free power hatch. The SEL R-Line adds AWD, leather, a panoramic sunroof, and driver-seat memory, while the SEL Premium R-Line tops the range with Nappa leather, Harman Kardon audio, a 360-degree camera, and parking assistance.
What changed, by category
Safety
Volkswagen’s IQ.DRIVE driver-assistance suite became standard across all trims. Adaptive front lighting, poor-weather lights, and dynamic road sign display also became standard throughout the lineup.
Tech and convenience
A heated steering wheel and hands-free power rear hatch became standard across the lineup.
Styling
Every trim gained the illuminated grille light bar. The SEL R-Line received standard 20-inch dark graphite wheels, while the SEL R-Line and SEL Premium R-Line added Black Carbon dash and door trim.
2023 Volkswagen Arteon specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 7-Spd DSG w/Tiptronic | Automatic, 7-Spd DSG w/Tiptronic | Automatic, 7-Spd DSG w/Tiptronic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 25 mpg | 22 mpg | 22 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 33 mpg | 31 mpg | 31 mpg |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 300 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 295 lb-ft | 295 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 27.2 cu-ft | 27.2 cu-ft | 27.2 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 40.2 in | 40.2 in | 40.2 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| 360 Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Remote Control Liftgate/Trunk Release | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Subwoofer | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Rear Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Massage Front Seat | |||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon?
The biggest change is more standard equipment, especially on the SE R-Line. Safety assistance, upgraded exterior lighting, a heated steering wheel, a hands-free power hatch, and road sign display became standard across the lineup.
Was the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon redesigned?
No, the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon was not redesigned. It is a late-cycle version of the first-generation U.S. model, with equipment updates rather than major structural or mechanical changes.
Did the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon get a new engine or transmission?
No, the 2023 Arteon kept the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic used for 2022. The major powertrain upgrade had already happened the year before.
Does every 2023 Volkswagen Arteon have IQ.DRIVE?
Yes, every 2023 Volkswagen Arteon trim has the IQ.DRIVE driver-assistance suite as standard equipment. This was an important upgrade for the entry-level SE R-Line.
Which 2023 Volkswagen Arteon trim changed the most?
The SE R-Line changed the most for 2023. It gained IQ.DRIVE, adaptive front lighting, poor-weather lights, an illuminated grille light bar, a heated steering wheel, a hands-free power hatch, and dynamic road sign display.
2023 Volkswagen Arteon Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon.
4.4
2023 Volkswagen Arteon
(97 reviews)
“The Arteon is a unique blend of style, comfort, function, and performance. It stands out in a world full of crossovers and SUVs.”
“It is a beautiful, well-developed vehicle that provides luxury and comfort with the feel of a sports car.”